Interactive multiculturalism

"Interactive Multiculturalism stresses the importance of open societies, with both the individual as well as the community as a whole working towards common goals."

Interactive multiculturalism stresses the importance of both the individual as well as the community, and also highlights the benefits of dialogue between individuals and communities. This theory starts from the premise that there is more to be gained from a culturally open and diverse way of life which involves interaction and dialogue with other individuals and groups than there is for a culturally self-contained existence. Although it is the state’s responsibility to provide the framework for both ways of living, because culture is so deeply linked to our everyday lives, high degrees of openness are often more successful if they are generated from the individual or community. Dialogue and openness in this theory are not about abstract notions of cohesion or integration, but about practical things communities can sit down and discuss, such as 'Should this tree be cut down?' or 'Is that skirt too short?'. Intercultural dialogue can provide a platform for this kind of dialogue to happen.

Interculturalism: Theory and Policy (61.24KB)